Sew the look: A lace-up shift dress

May 26, 2016.Reading time 5 minutes.

In Oregon, it does not feel like Summer. Today, temperatures hovered around sixty degrees. Still, I’m sewing like it’s ninety! The weather may not be great but my fabric stash is. Who can resist sewing with crisp cottons and linens at this time of year? That’s why I made this dress even though I […]

DIY Jeans and a Burda Spring Top

May 19, 2016.Reading time 7 minutes.

Hi all! Yes, I have FINALLY finished my first pair of jeans. My class at Modern Domestic here in Portland is over and I squeaked over the finish line with only five class minutes to spare! It feels sooooo good to have this project under my belt. I have wanted to sew a pair of […]

McCalls 7314: Burberry knock-off

May 14, 2016.Reading time 4 minutes.

As you all know, I’ve got a thing for Burberry’s classic designs, and the Spring 2016 collection was one of the best. Being peplum obsessed, I couldn’t help but fall in love with this cute shirt. Okay, as Burberry prices go, the tag on this one wasn’t totally ridiculous…only $350. Yes, it’s a lot, but […]

Sew the look: Denim and Lace

May 7, 2016.Reading time 4 minutes.

My summer travel wardrobe is starting to take shape. I’m determined to pack efficiently, but this will be tricky. The trip includes a Danube River cruise and some evenings will be dress-up events. Of course, jeans are my go-to wardrobe staple, but they’re probably not ‘cruise-appropriate’ (LOL), so I’m sewing some separates that […]

Simplicity 1280: Crossover Top Times Two

April 29, 2016.Reading time 5 minutes.

I will admit. When it comes to sewing a top, I am a bit of a speed demon. I’m happiest when I’m sewing fast, and I will not stop until I’m done. Yes, I can leave a coat, jacket or dress on the sewing table to be completed another day, but a top? No way! […]

Vogue 9056: One pattern, Two ways

April 23, 2016.Reading time 3 minutes.

I’m always amazed at how different fabrics can dramatically change how a pattern looks! That was the certainly the case when I recently sewed two versions of Vogue 9056 , one of my tried and trues (here). Yes, I am the queen of peplums as one of my fellow singers has dubbed me, but I can’t resist […]

Florals, Cut-Out Shoulders and Pants

April 17, 2016.Reading time 5 minutes.

This summer, I’m going to be vacationing in Europe during the hottest days of July. Of course, this means a bit of wardrobe planning, a task I take on willingly! A quick review of my closet revealed the truth. I have very few summery tops, and I could use a few light weight skirts and […]

Sew Boho: Bell Sleeves and a Cardi-Vest

April 8, 2016.Reading time 5 minutes.

I’m calling this look ‘boho’, even though some might call it ‘romantic.’ The top has bell sleeves, my favorite look this Spring. I love them because they signal warm weather and outdoor concerts and summer food festivals, you know? Here are a couple of ready-to-wear examples for inspiration; a top by Elizabeth and James, and […]

A Tale of Two Morris Blazers

April 3, 2016.Reading time 6 minutes.

A person can never have enough throw-on blazers, am I right? If you’re wearing a springy top or a dress and a bit of wind happens your way, it’s so handy to have a little blazer or cardigan to pop over it. The Morris Blazer by Grainline Studios is just one of those little toppers […]

A blue tee with pops of white for Spring

March 28, 2016.Reading time 4 minutes.

I always feel as though Spring begins the first day after Easter because that’s when my sewing mood begins to shift. I put away the wools and sweater knits as I dream of sunshine and linen and silk. But it’s been so cold and rainy here, it feels as though the sun has deserted us. […]